Currently, approximately 30,000 organic farms and processing facilities around the world are certified to the USDA organic standards. Their certification is managed by approximately 100 certifying agents located throughout the United States and around the world.

Certification allows a farm or processing facility to sell, label, and represent their products as organic. Any organic operation in violation of the USDA organic regulations is subject to enforcement actions, which can include financial penalties or suspension/revocation of their organic certificate.

Accreditation authorizes private, foreign, or State entities to certify farms or processing facilities. Certifying agents are accredited by the USDA and are located throughout the United States and around the world. Certifying agents are responsible for ensuring that the USDA organic products meet or exceed all organic standards.

USDA organic products are produced in the United States and many other countries around the world. The National Organic Program also has trade arrangements with several nations to facilitate the import and export of organic products. The specific requirements vary for each arrangement. Learn more.

Training Resources

While the online training materials are intended for certifying agents, they may be helpful resources for other audiences. Please note that online training modules do not count towards accreditation or certification. Learn more.

For additional information, you may be interested in specific resources for: